Birdwatching during the first fortnight of August.

Mount Abu, known for its serene landscapes and rich biodiversity, offered a unique birding experience during the first half of August. With its overcast skies and sporadic showers, July had already set the stage, amounting to a modest 20 inches of rain. But as August rolled in, the weather turned even more challenging, with dull, misty conditions and only light drizzles to break the monotony. Our dams and Nakki Lake still await the heavy downpours needed to fill them to the brim.

August is a tough time for birding enthusiasts in Mount Abu. The cloudy skies and limited light make it a challenge to spot and photograph the region’s avian residents. However, the misty atmosphere also brings a certain charm, revealing a variety of birds that are hidden or shy during brighter days.

Despite the conditions, I continued my daily birding routine, taking my camera. The rewards were worth the wait. During these two weeks, I photographed an impressive array of birds, each bringing its own splash of colour to the otherwise muted landscape.

Among the birds captured were the vibrant Indian Yellow Tit and the elusive Green Avadavat, whose emerald hues stood out against the mist. The energetic Spot-breasted Fantail flitted through the underbrush, while the elegant Brahminy Starling displayed its characteristic crest. By the water’s edge, the White-breasted Waterhen prowled, and the ever-familiar Indian Robin added its cheerful presence.

Other highlights included the sociable Indian Silverbill and the stealthy Common Hawk Cuckoo. The Oriental Magpie Robin, with its melodious calls, the Red-vented Bulbul with its striking plumage, and the patterned Scaly-breasted Munia rounded out my sightings, making each moment spent in the field worthwhile.

Despite the challenges, Mount Abu’s Misty August provides its own set of rewards for birding enthusiasts who are patient and persistent.

Bird of the Fortnight

Spot-breasted Fantail - Rhipidura albogularis

"Black-winged Kite - Elanus caeruleu, This long-winged raptor is mostly grey or white, with black shoulder patches, wing tips, and eye stripes. Seen here gracing the misty clouds."

Black-winged Kite - Elanus caeruleus

"Brown-headed Barbet, a bird of medium size with a robust bill, a striking brown head, and brilliant green plumage. perched on a cable, showing off its distinctive look and vibrant characteristics."

Brown-headed Barbet - Psilopogon zeylanicus

Greater Coucal - Centropus sinensis

"I.D requester, a raptor photographed flying over."

I. D requested?

It's probably the Booted Eagle

Indian Robin - Copsychus fulicatus

Indian White-eye - Zosterops palpebrosus

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus

Oriental Magpie-Robin - Copsychus saularis

Red-rumped Swallow - Cecropis daurica

Scaly-breasted Munia - Lonchura punctulata

Spot-breasted Fantail - Rhipidura albogularis

Tickell's Blue Flycatcher - Cyornis tickelliae

In India,today is Raksha Bandhan, a unique celebration. Raksha Bandhan is all about the strong sibling bond. Wishing you a Raksha Bandhan brimming with love, joy, and a deepening bond with your loved ones. I really hope that your relationship lasts a lifetime!

Birding in the Last Two Weeks of July

The last two weeks of July have flown by in a whirlwind of misty mornings and overcast afternoons. Unfortunately, the rain-gods have bypassed Mount Abu this year, and the much-anticipated monsoon showers have been scarce. The hillsides drape themselves in a mantle of mist, and the air carries the scent of impending rain, but the actual downpour has disappointed us. With Abu relying on the monsoon for its water supply, we can only hope for our quota of rain in the coming months.

For birders, the monsoon season in Mount Abu is a challenging yet rewarding time. Damp conditions and low light levels can test patience and skill. Protecting equipment from the elements is crucial, as the humidity can cause mildew on cameras if one is not careful.

Despite these challenges, the promise of photographing some of Mount Abu’s most captivating avian residents keeps my spirits high. With its striking black and white plumage, the Pied Cuckoo remains elusive but highly expected. Its presence is a harbinger of the monsoon, a symbol of hope for better rains. The Indian Blackbird, known for its melodious song, brings a serenity to the lush landscape. At the same time, the vibrant Indian Golden Oriole, whose numbers have dwindled, is always a joy to spot. I haven’t snapped a photo of one in a while, and I await the opportunity. The elusive Brain-Fever Bird and the elegant Indian Paradise Flycatcher are also on my watch list, their presence adding to the magic of birding during this season.

Here’s to hoping for a bountiful monsoon that brings life and vibrancy to Mount Abu, enriching the habitat for its beautiful avian inhabitants and offering birders like me the perfect conditions to capture their splendour.

Bird of the Fortnight